Hello everyone! With the second semester already in session I’ve been taking some time to reflect on my journey through my first semester as a first-year student. From navigating new academic challenges to adjusting to college life and building a sense of community, these past few months have been a whirlwind of growth, discovery, and memorable experiences.
I started my semester by participating in the Summer Bridge Program with the humanities cohort, moving in three weeks earlier than most students! Through this program, I reconnected with people I had met at BAM and fellow QuestBridge Matches from the Class of 2028. Summer Bridge helped me form some of my closest friendships, and while I don’t see everyone regularly, I still catch up with some from time to time. Once the semester officially began, I was fortunate to get into all the classes I wanted. Academically, my first semester felt both intense and manageable at the same time. I initially joined The Amherst Student but ended up stepping away, realizing that while there are many interesting clubs on campus, they can also be very time-consuming. Instead of spreading myself thin with extracurriculars, I’ve chosen to focus on my coursework and multiple on-campus jobs. In high school, I was deeply involved in extracurricular activities, which, in hindsight, left me feeling exhausted. Now, I prefer to spend my time working in roles that genuinely interest me. Besides, graduate schools prioritize academic and professional experience over club involvement, so I’d rather invest my time in work that is both meaningful and financially beneficial.
That being said, this semester, I’m maintaining my focus on academics and work. While I may eventually join a club I’ve been interested in, for now, my top priorities are my studies and jobs—especially as a FLI student who has moved so far from home. Financial stability is essential, so working remains a key.